This report discusses the rationale for enhancing the current NAEP design by adding a capacity for adaptive testing. Items are tailored to the achievement level of the student in adaptive testing. The authors conclude that implementation of adaptive testing procedures, two-stage testing in particular, has the potential to increase the usability and validity of NAEP results. Adaptive testing would permit adequately reliable scores to be reported to individual students and their parents, increasing their personal stake in performing well. Improvement in data quality would also speed data processing and permit delivery of assessment results in a timely manner.

Working Papers provide preliminary analysis of substantive, technical, and methodological issues. They are works in progress that are presented to promote the sharing of valuable work experience and knowledge. These papers have not undergone a rigorous review for consistency with NCES standards.